Children’s Liturgy of the Word

Children’s Liturgy of the Word or “CLOW” for short!

What is it?
Liturgy of the Word for Children is a program in which the Sunday scripture readings are proclaimed and explained on a level appropriate to children in grades K-6 at the 10:30 am Sunday Mass from September through May. Any child in this age group may participate – no registration is necessary.

What exactly do they do?
The children gather with their leaders in the front of the altar after the Opening Prayer and are sent forth by the presider. They process to the Chapel. After a brief Welcome and Opening Prayer, they listen to the First Reading proclaimed from the Children’s Lectionary. They are then led in singing a Psalm and Gospel Acclamation. Next, the Gospel is proclaimed by one of the adult leaders. If the number of children warrants it, they will be broken down into two groups, K-3 and 4-6. In each group, an age-appropriate reflection on the Word is shared by the leader through stories, discussions, or pictures – whatever the leader finds most appropriate to conveying the meaning of the scriptures. The children are then invited to share their own thoughts and ideas. Following this, the children profess a simple Act of Faith, pray their Prayers of Intercession, and finally return to their families at the time of the Presentation of the Gifts.

What is the schedule?

This starts in mid-September and runs until the middle of May. Occasionally there will be no CLOW due to a holiday or the mass will be a children’s/family mass.

How can you help? We are currently in need of:

Adult Leaders – to lead the Scripture service, reflection and prayers at the 10:30 am Mass for both age groups; leaders of each age group/Mass are scheduled on a rotating basis; detailed resources for preparation and reflection are provided; previous teaching experience is not required as this is a ministry of faith-sharing rather than teaching

Teen Leaders (Peer Ministers) – they will help the adult leaders by reading, leading discussion, etc.